My commitment to the fight against breast cancer began in 2010, when I first signed up for The Susan G. Komen 3-Day®. It was meant to be a great celebration of my own mother, Thelma Harper, marking her 20th anniversary as a breast cancer survivor. But it quickly transformed into much more than a celebration?it became a deeply ingrained part of who I am, a personal mission to help end this fight for me and every woman in my life. I embraced the cause, wearing the pink ribbons and loving that my family and friends associated me with this crucial mission.

In 2012, my resolve was powerfully reinforced when I married Jeff Griffin and gained a mother-in-law, Katina Duncan, a two-year survivor herself. My purpose sharpened: I fight for a cure for the beautiful women in my life?my daughter, two step-daughters, three granddaughters, two sisters, and countless nieces, aunts, cousins, and friends who all deserve a full and healthy lifetime.

My mother, Thelma, celebrated 34 years as a survivor before she passed. My mother-in-law is now celebrating her 15th year. Their stories are a testament to their strength, but they also reveal the brutal reality of the disease. Breast cancer brought them immense pain, embarrassment, and deep fear; it changed their bodies and their minds. Despite the love of family, they felt tragically alone and scared in their suffering.

When Mom was diagnosed in 1989, doctors were far less equipped. Her treatment was a devastating radical mastectomy?removing the breast, the day after Christmas. The toll was so severe she couldn't face reconstruction. My mother-in-law?s journey in 2010 included surgery followed by the maximum allowed 66 radiation treatments, completed in November. Though she had reconstruction later, the radiation?s impact on her body and health has been permanent.

They deserved a lifetime of vibrant health. I walk because I refuse to let anyone else endure what they went through.

This year, I proudly take on my 12th walk alongside my wonderful team, Pink Soles in Motion. We are a family of support, sharing happy and sad moments, all united by one desire: to end cancer in our lifetime. We walk to raise vital donations and awareness. Please join me in this fight by supporting my efforts as I prepare for this incredible challenge once again.

.